Dividend, balance sheet and capital management
The Board of Hiscox Ltd has declared an interim dividend for 2017 of 9.5p per share (2016: 8.5p) reflecting the Group's decision in February to announce a 15% step-up in the full year dividend and associated commitment to a progressive dividend policy. The record date for the dividend will be 11 August 2017 and the payment date will be 13 September 2017.
The Board proposes to offer a scrip dividend alternative subject to the terms and conditions of Hiscox Ltd's 2016 Scrip Dividend Scheme. The last date for receipt of scrip elections will be 18 August 2017 and the reference price will be announced on 30 August 2017. Details of how to elect for the Scrip Dividend are provided on the Company's website.
We still see plenty of opportunities for profitable growth and will continue to deploy our capital to this end, As ever we will review our capital position at year end.
